MOGADISHU — The United Kingdom has opened applications for its fully funded Chevening Scholarship programme, offering Somali professionals the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at leading universities across the UK.
The scholarship programme aims to support emerging leaders by providing academic training, professional networks and international experience to help them contribute to development efforts in Somalia and address global challenges.
More than 100 Somalis have received Chevening Scholarships since the programme began in Somalia, joining a global alumni network of more than 60,000 professionals worldwide.
The initiative is being supported in Somalia through a partnership with the Hormuud Salaam Foundation, which is funding two Somali Chevening Scholars each year between the 2025/26 and 2027/28 academic cycles. The partnership is designed to expand access to higher education and invest in Somali talent.
“Somalia’s greatest asset is its people,” British Ambassador to Somalia Charles King said, encouraging qualified candidates to apply and describing the programme as an opportunity for Somalis to gain skills and networks to help shape the country’s future.
Emma Hennessey, head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, said the programme seeks individuals with leadership potential, a commitment to community impact and the ability to build international partnerships.
Applications for the 2026 Chevening Scholarship cycle are open from August 4 to October 6, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to review the programme requirements and prepare applications that demonstrate leadership experience, professional achievements and future ambitions.
Launched in 1983, Chevening has supported tens of thousands of professionals around the world, becoming one of the UK’s flagship international scholarship programmes aimed at developing future leaders.
